October 15, 2012
England

Towering wind turbine rejected

The Bolton News | 15th October 2012 | www.theboltonnews.co.uk

More than 100 objectors are celebrating after councillors blew out plans for a wind turbine, half the size of Blackpool Tower, to be built.

Noel McDermott, of London-based Stern Wind Ltd, asked Bolton Council if he could put up the 79.6metre-high turbine on green belt land to the east of Walker Fold Road near the Old Links Golf Club.

One hundred neighbours formally objected along with Andrew Melling Vets, The British Horse Society and the National Farmers Union.

They claimed it would be too big, unsightly and inappropriate for the green belt.

A council spokesman said they asked Mr McDermott for details about noise levels but they were not provided.

At a meeting last Thursday, Bolton planning committee turned down the application.

Mark Holt, of Walker Fold Road, had told the committee: “I am very concerned about the noise the turbine would make.

“Members of my family have hearing impairments and there is no information concerning whether this turbine would make that worse.”

Cllr Linsey Kell added: “It would dwarf Smithills and Horwich.

“We’ve got a great deal of quality, empty space in this part of Bolton and need to preserve it for future generations.”

After the meeting, Jackie Roberts, of Corrie Drive, Kearsley, who was also one of the objectors, said: “I am very pleased they voted against it because it would have been too big for the location.

“It’s in such a prominent position on the edge of the moor and I am glad the committee has listened to the views of so many objectors.

“My only concern is that the applicant could appeal or come back with a similar development.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/10/15/towering-wind-turbine-rejected/